Ceredigion: Hayden Paddon wide leader in Wales, Franceschi 3rd

For the first appearance of Rally Ceredigion in the calendar of theERC, the competitors started stage 1 with two runs in the original superspecial stage traced in the town of Aberystwyth and in front of a large crowd. The rest was more classic with 8 special stages for a little over 144 km timed.

Showing himself in great form, Hayden Paddon took these two sections and finished this short hors d'oeuvre with 1''3 on Andrea Mabellini. Not enjoying this type of exercise very much, Mathieu Franceschi was only 6^e already 3''8.

On the ES plotted in the county of Ceredigion, James Williams created a surprise by winning the first time trial of the day. The Englishman was trapped in the next one, finishing on the roof. That's when the Hayden Paddon festival began.

Perfectly at ease on these very special special stages and running in a superb setting, the New Zealander lined up 7 best times (SS4 to SS10). Gradually escaping, he built up a lead exceeding a minute before attacking the two super special stages in the host city. Continuing his demonstration, he added them to his collection, bringing his margin to 1'18''7. The driver from Géraldine in the South Island of New Zealand will be able to calmly manage his end of rally.

While Paddon was smiling, it was more complicated for Mathieu Franceschi. While the latter absolutely had to get ahead of the Kiwi to hope to reduce his 14-point deficit, he was unable to find the right feeling, completing the first loop in 8^e position. Citing his lack of experience on this type of road, the Varois improved during the afternoon and he also took advantage of some racing facts to finish his Saturday in 3rd^e place. If he gains confidence more quickly on Sunday, perhaps he will try to gain another place.

The final stage consists of a loop of two special stages to be negotiated twice. The competitors will have 57,16 km of timed stages to cover before returning to Aberystwyth.

Ranking at the end of the first stage